2 Best Hotels in East Grinstead, The Southeast

Convenient for exploring nearby Standen House, this luxurious country hotel offers traditionally furnished bedrooms, superb gourmet dining, and fun and games galore—from golfing on the scenic 18-hole forest course to spa treatments in the country club (as well as tennis, swimming, croquet, snooker, and bike hire). Built in the 19th century, the hotel's enviable location on the edge of Ashdown Forest, which was the setting for A. A. Milne's Winnie the Pooh stories, means there are appealing walking paths all around; a half-day circular walk takes in the original Poohsticks Bridge. Even if you can't stay overnight, come here for a round of golf, a relaxing spa day, or afternoon tea on the lawn. And, if you can, stick around for dinner, as the hotel's Anderida Restaurant is one of the region's best. Ashdown Park is 6 miles southeast of East Grinstead.

Located 15 miles southwest of East Grinstead (and within east reach of Arundel, Brighton, and Lewes), this spectacular country estate is the region's most luxurious stay, set within 92 acres of Sussex countryside and including a small vineyard, woodland walk, kitchen garden, and rockery. Still, it's what inside the hotel that counts. The beautifully appointed bedrooms, suites, and lakeside lodges are individually designed to combine heritage features with modern comfort, and there are wide-ranging dining options in the three excellent restaurants—including the Michelin-starred Ben Wilkinson at The Pass—along with the billiard bar and garden terrace. Perhaps the highlight, however, is the state-of-the-art spa, with an indoor pool and a natural outdoor swimming lake, as well as a scented sauna and salt steam room. Breakfast is served in the elegant Camellia, or you can eat in the spa restaurant Botanica, which has many vegetarian and vegan options. South Lodge is also an excellent family retreat, with extras for young children including a tent and books in the room, activity trails through the gardens (with prizes), and designated swimming times.